Last January a new Dutch brass band gave its very first concert.

Together with soloist's Steven Mead and Les Neish, Backum Brass entered the stage for a premiere concert not likely to be forgotten by band members or audience.

100th anniversary

Backum Brass is part of the Fanfare “Emergo” from Castricum which celebrates its 100th anniversary this year.

The Brass band started as a project nine months ago after many young musicians from the Fanfare Orchestra listened to the music piece “Extreme Makeover” over and over again.

The Brass band started as a project nine months ago after many young musicians from the Fanfare Orchestra listened to the music piece “Extreme Makeover” over and over again4BR

Extreme Makeover

Their interest for Brass band music with it’s specific style, technique and music was born and subsequently around 15 of these youngsters formed Backum Brass.

During their early existence they were joined by more and more experienced brass band players, resulting in a complete band for their premiere concert. Their programme contained pieces such as 'Canterbury Choral', 'Hispaniola', 'Tritico' and their favourite, 'Horizons. They also accompanied Leslie on 'Swing Low' and Steven on 'Carrickfergus'.

Premiere Concert

The premiere concert was the closing act of the National Dutch Tuba and Euphonium day.

Some 50 tuba and euphonium players enjoyed a full day of workshops with Leslie and Steven. This resulted in a heavy sounding brass ensemble and they performed at the evening’s concert.

Tuba and Euphonium

The Dutch Tuba and Euphonium Day is just one of the many activities on the Anniversary Calendar of Emergo. The next big event is the Gala Concert together with the Grimethorpe Colliery Band on Sunday March 30th in the Philharmonie in Haarlem. Emergo will have the world premiere of their commissioned piece “Brass”. They are proud to be accompanied on stage by the English Champions for what undoubtedly will be a great concert.

Other activities

Other activities are a concert with the Military Johan Willem Friso Kapel and the Dutch Diva’s, Emergo’s youth band accompanied by Cor Bakker and many more. Fore more information, see www.emergo.org.

Backum Brass is now preparing for their first competition. They will perform again at the “Gouden Spikerfestival” in April, preceded of course, with a few try out concerts to warm up for this event.